14.03.2026 08:20
A hot air balloon crashed into a building in Poland. The 28-year-old balloon pilot was thrown from the basket and fell onto the roof of the building, resulting in his death. Two passengers were also injured in the incident. It was learned that the deceased pilot had previously been the Polish champion in the Women's Balloon Championship.
A hot air balloon flying low in the city of Zielona Góra in western Poland crashed into an apartment building.
THE PILOT LOST HER LIFE
As a result of the impact, the 28-year-old pilot Jagoda Gancarek, who was in the balloon basket, was thrown out and fell onto the roof of the building. Emergency medical teams and a helicopter ambulance were dispatched to the scene upon notification. Medical personnel performed CPR on the young pilot for a long time, but despite all interventions, she could not be saved.
2 PASSENGERS INJURED
According to reports in the foreign press; the other two women in the balloon escaped without serious injury after the emergency landing. It was reported that the balloon was shattered and got caught in a tree after the accident, while the basket was found on the ground next to a bus.
INVESTIGATION INITIATED
The police and the Polish State Aircraft Accident Investigation Commission have launched an investigation into the incident.
CHAMPION PILOT
It was learned that Jagoda Gancarek was previously the Polish champion in the Women's Balloon Championship and was recognized as an experienced balloon pilot and instructor.